Taking the unusual step of admitting interest in both Moura and Arsenal striker Robin van Persie in recent weeks, he sent out a clear message to United supporters that any perceived lack of ambition in the transfer market does not extend to him, says the Manchester Evening News.

He has put the ball firmly in chief executive David Gill’s court to make the deals happen.

This is a vital week in the case of Moura, whose complicated contract means he can demand 30 percent of any transfer fee as of August 1.

He is currently entitled to 20 percent, meaning it is in Sao Paulo’s interest to push through a deal before the end of the month, otherwise having to increase his asking price to make up the shortfall.